MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Pet parents often hesitate to adopt due to uncertainties surrounding a pet’s health, behavior, and compatibility, according to global research from Mars. As a result, over half of pet parents opt for alternatives to adoption, leaving an estimated 362 million dogs and cats homeless worldwide. The ASPCA projects that by 2025, 5.8 million pets will enter U.S. shelters, highlighting the need to improve shelter adoption rates and long-term pet retention.
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To celebrate the 18th Adoption Weekend in the U.S. and the 3rd Global Adoption Weekend this October, Mars and its affiliated pet care brands are waiving adoption fees at 17 shelters across 16 U.S. cities from October 2 to 4, with an additional event in Bentonville, AR, on October 9 to 11. The initiative includes distributing kits with pet food and essential supplies.
Dan Schachner, the Puppy Bowl referee and pet advocate, along with his dog Papi, participated to emphasize key questions for shelter staff, the 3-3-3 rule for a pet’s initial adjustment period, and guidance on transitioning a rescue pet's diet smoothly.